Education Visas

Education visas allow an overseas student to study at an Australian educational institution. The visas differ based on the kind of study or course being undertaken. The following are some of the main education visas:

Independent ELICOS Sector Visa Subclass 570

This visa is for applicants who are students enrolled to study at a registered full-time English Language Intensive Course for Overseas Students (ELICOS). You must have sufficient funds to pay for your travel expenses, tuition and living expenses. This visa also grants you the right to work a limited number of hours per week and also allows dependent family members to accompany you to Australia. This is a temporary visa.

Schools Sector Visa Subclass 571

This visa is for applicants who are international students applying to study a primary or secondary school course fulltime in Australia or who are taking part in an approved secondary school exchange program. You must have sufficient funds to pay for your travel expenses, tuition and living expenses. This is a temporary visa.

Higher Education Visa Subclass 573

This visa is for applicants who are international students enrolled to study a full-time higher education course such as a bachelor’s degree, graduate certificate or diploma. You must have sufficient funds to pay for your travel expenses, tuition and living expenses. This visa also grants you the right to work a limited number of hours per week and also allows dependent family members to accompany you to Australia. This is a temporary visa.

Postgraduate Research Sector Visa Subclass 574

This visa is for applicants who are international students undertaking a masters degree by research or a doctorate. You must have sufficient funds to pay for your travel expenses, tuition and living expenses. This visa also grants you the right to work an unlimited number of hours and also allows dependent family members to accompany you to Australia. This is a temporary visa.

AusAID or Defence Sector Visa Subclass 576

This visa allows for applicants who are international students who are sponsored by AusAID or the Department of Defence to study in Australia full time. This visa also grants you the right to work a limited number of hours and also allows dependent family members to accompany you to Australia. This is a temporary visa.

Even if you do not meet the criteria you may be eligible for a different visa or may be able to demonstrate circumstances that will grant you an exemption from certain requirements. To determine your eligibility for an education visa take our free online assessment.